Vincent Makinde, a dismissed Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), has been at the center of controversy after a viral video showed him leg-chained while in detention in Abuja. 
The footage, which has sparked widespread public outrage, led human rights lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, to demand his immediate and unconditional release.
Falana claimed that Makinde, who has been detained at Asokoro Police Station since November 11, was a current member of the Nigeria Police Force, serving in the Federal Operations Department at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
In response, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) issued a statement on December 18, 2024, clarifying that Makinde had actually been dismissed from the force in 2022. According to Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the dismissal followed a thorough investigation and orderly room trial, during which Makinde was found guilty of serious offenses, including abuse of office, extortion, misconduct, dereliction of duty, and insubordination.
The NPF statement further explained that while awaiting the validation of his case and subsequent prosecution, Makinde assaulted a senior officer and escaped from custody. He later resurfaced in June 2024, impersonating an active police officer with the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police and carrying a rifle. Upon his re-arrest, Makinde displayed violent resistance, which led officers to use leg restraints to prevent further escape and ensure the safety of all involved. The NPF clarified that such measures are internationally recognized for individuals who aggressively resist lawful detention.
Currently, Makinde remains in custody, with investigations ongoing into his criminal activities, including the offenses that led to his earlier dismissal. The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and upholding the rule of law, emphasizing that officers who violate the law will be held accountable for their actions.
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